superyacht refit uk

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The flexibility that the Pendennis facilities offer combined with our in-house specialist teams, mean that we are able to provide a one-stop solution for clients looking to conduct refit work on their yachts. From a couple of months’ short emergency or routine maintenance to a more extensive year-long, class focused refit, survey and extensive rebuild or remodelling to improve the structure or internal layout. Pendennis’ project and trade managers work alongside the Owner’s team to control deadlines and budgets throughout. The quality of our work stands the test of time with a high percentage of repeat visits for yachts requiring refit works taking advantage of the company’s highly in-house skilled tradespeople, global network and impressive modern, accessible facilities. Breathing new life into vessels has become a hallmark of Pendennis, all the way from the remodelling and extension of a yacht’s outdoor entertainment space, to the full reconfiguration of the interior layout to allow for an Owner’s specific requirements. Usually running alongside technical upgrades, paint and survey requirements, the possibilities to enhance our clients' onboard experience on their newly purchased or existing yacht are endless.

Case Studies

Refit archive

Since our founding in 1988, we have completed refit works on over 350 vessels. Visit our archive to view a further selection of these past projects.

What our customers are saying

We had a very satisfactory experience with Pendennis through all phases of the refit. At the outset it was clear that both Pendennis management and technicians had a thorough grasp of the work that was either necessary or desired. Pendennis has the considerable advantage of having most of the required technical skills in house and therefore on call at all times.

Owners 32m MY

Due to a change of ownership of the yacht the scope of the refit increased fairly dramatically just as the refit began. Pendennis took this in their stride, the yard has a great depth of skill and resources which enabled us to complete the refit on the original delivery date.

Captain SY Moonbird

The rebuild of LADY E was the most extensive I have been involved with during my 30 year career as a seafarer, which was only possible by partnering with a shipyard with the capabilities and resources of Pendennis. LADY E entered Pendennis shipyard as one of the leading charter yachts globally and is now leaving with unrivalled luxury, entertainment features and AV/IT technology, as well as engineering reliability and safety.

Captain MY Lady E

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Whether you are looking to build from scratch, restore a classic beauty or make improvements to your current yacht, it all starts with a vision, and a conversation. We're here to discuss your next project, whenever you're ready.

Setag Yachts

Yacht refit.

One of the most common questions we are asked by potential clients is what we mean exactly when we talk about offering a yacht refit service.                          

A refit is not just a solution to your challenges – but instead it’s protecting your investment. A sensible way of buying, instead of solving a challenge once you’ve bought it.  

The best way to understand our service is to think in terms of buying a house. When you buy a new house, what’s the first thing you do? You renovate, redecorate and revive the decor. In other words, you ensure that it is more than simply another house for you – it becomes your new home. And by doing this, you personalise it to your style and ultimately increase it’s value ready to move on in the future.

Bespoke luxury

It’s very unlikely that you will want to live with the previous owner’s colour schemes, furniture and taste in interior design. And yet this is exactly what many people do when they buy a pre-owned boat. It makes no sense: why would you sleep in someone else’s mattress and rely on outdated technology – be it the navigation system or a home entertainment that isn’t compatible with your requirements?

This is where Setag comes in.

Future proof your yacht

We offer a ‘Third Way’ for customers who previously only had the choice of buying new or compromising with a pre-owned boat that isn’t fit for their purpose.

Our design & refit service means you get the best of both worlds, truly adding value by ensuring your yacht is future proof – drawing upon the same talents who built your boat in the first place and upgrading it to tomorrow’s standard – bespoke according to your needs.

Protect your investment

There’s a lot of logic in refitting a yacht: firstly because it can create an environment of which you are the first to experience; and secondly because it makes economic sense, adding value to your yacht and protecting your investment – both your yacht and its refit when you come to sell.

And when you’re spending between half a million and £5 million on a pre-owned yacht, why wouldn’t you change it to the decor and the technology that suits you? Why would you compromise and settle for something that is second best?

That’s why a refit with SETAG Yachts makes sense.

When is it time for a refit?

The reasons for a design and refit project and the age of the yachts we have Remastered, are as varied as the vessels and the owners themselves. Generally, a refit can be carried out on a yacht between 1 – 25 years old and typically, the rework coincides with technical/engineering upgrades of which we cover.

Many owners love their yachts and how they look externally, and simply outgrow the interior. We can elevate any project, small or large and all within a very quick turnaround.

Fall in love with your boat all over again.

What is the cost of a refit?

There is a false impression about yachts that they only require a refit if they are on their last legs and are barely seaworthy. This simply isn’t the case – it should be seen as a way to futureproof your yacht and make it reflect your taste, personality and needs.

A refit by Setag is there to add value.

Considering a Design and refit project? 

We look forward to realising The Art of The Possible with you. 

Redefined by Setag

Each project is truly bespoke, catering to individual needs. If you are moving into a new house, you naturally want to renovate to put your own stamp on it – to make it feel like your home. So, why would you be happy to live with someone else’s taste when it comes to your yacht?

At the Helm

The Setag founder, Chris Gates, reflects on a highly successful career in the yachting industry – and the inspiration behind Setag Yachts.

Yachting Life

To be a yacht owner is a very special feeling. To feel the freedom of being on the water, away from the pressures of everyday life, with no deadlines but those set by the sun, is a very unique type of escape. It offers you a sense of luxury that you can rarely attain from material products – the luxury of time and space.

With SETAG, you can make a huge difference when you buy something secondhand, maybe a bit tired and then you put all of this beauty in it and you create what effectively is a brand new boat. Completely to your own liking, your own standard...creating the perfect boat for us.

Brilliant concept...new boat look and feel at pre-owned prices - by the industry experts. Recycling at its best!

The great thing is, none of this is off the shelf - I love this boat and now she’s got her frock on...this is the best money I've spent.

If you want to redefine, refit and remaster your boat who better to do it than the people who designed it in the first place? "What a fantastic idea!"

We cannot recommend the SETAG team highly enough. If you love your current boat, then for a fraction of the cost to change it, have it SETAG’d. The SY branding certainly helped us obtain a premium price. We got what we paid for her in 2017 plus what we spent with you!

I have worked with Chris for over 30 years and I’m pleased to see him develop his own brand - along with likeminded people with industry-leading expertise. The future is bright for Setag Yachts and pre-owned yacht owners, who can now refurbish their vessels to today’s - or even tomorrow's standards.

That has been one of the key selling points for us – having that personalised service and having a boat that is unique to us – is standout in its own right. We are pretty blown away…very very pleased. I think it’s fabulous…it has transformed the boat.

The perfect way to open up a new market: the "true reflection of luxury". Setag gets it: simplicity and personalisation are key – with the depth of knowledge to deliver.

Setag are probably the only company who can carry out all the tasks as a ‘one stop shop’. Other yards were reluctant to price work and needed to subcontract many tasks meaning higher costs and longer lead times. If you are in any doubt speak to Chris and his team, they know boats like no one else.

We have been waiting for this quality of service: a comprehensive, professional refit that we can rely on – because of the pedigree of its staff, with over 200 years' experience in our market.

You have put Princess magic into our beloved Broom.

Never have I come across a more able collection of professionals in this market. We have complete trust in Setag, since its team has been in the business for as long as we can remember. We're very excited to welcome this specialist refit company into our portfolio.

Testimonials

Don't just take our word for it...

Building on your ideas

Welcome to concept yachts, concept yachts is a world-class and internationally mobile superyacht and marine contractor company. , often referred to as ‘the mobile shipyard’, our dedicated teams of key shipyard contractors and composite specialists have supported projects for some of the world’s leading superyacht and marine brands. , with our multiple specialist contractor teams and our drive for exacting standards, we can help you start ‘building on your ideas’., our divisions.

Our team have had the pleasure to build projects and train workforces in the UK, Europe, Egypt, Bahrain and the UAE, offering a clear understanding of language barriers and cultural differences, whilst most importantly, getting the job done!

Concept Carpentry is one of our most recent divisions at Concept Yachts.

Concept Yachts’ exterior fit-out division has been born from our multi-skilled boat builders, carpenters, teak deck and hardware specialists coming together at the request of some of the UK’s leading superyacht and sailing yacht builders.

Engineering

The Concept Engineering department have been supplying specific skills in multiple sectors around the world.

Fabrication & Welding

As with all of Concept Yachts’ contractor divisions, we strive to source and supply the very best skills in the industry.

Marine Electrical

Over the years of supplying our clients with boat building expertise and consultancy, we were often asked if we could supply projects with marine electrical teams.

Yacht Finishing

‘Concept Yachts’ finishing division understand perfection is what a client is striving for when building a superyacht.

Project Management

We will supply your project with your own independent project management team that will assess all of your yachts requirements, make a strategic plan and select our best divisional teams which will be suited whether its a new-build, refit or repair.

Consultancy

Our consultants are on hand to assist and support your project, whether it be composite expertise, coatings advice or full project management for a refit or a new build.

Manufacturing

Concept Yachts’ Manufacturing division have a UK based, ‘in-house’ production team that have drawn on their years of experience and knowledge across multiple sectors.

Concept Consultancy

• Call Simon 07768154978
• [email protected]
• Mon - Fri: 08:00 - 17:00

Simon Marine

Yacht Refit Specialists

At Simon Marine, we specialise in delivering unparalleled yacht refit solutions, where innovation meets the open sea.  Whether you’re seeking a modernisation upgrade, safety compliance, or a complete luxury overhaul, our small team of experts are here to turn your maritime vision and home afloat into a reality.

South Devon’s  Premier Yacht Refit Service: Serving the South Hams, River Dart, Dartmouth, Salcombe,  Torbay, Galmpton, Plymouth and beyond. 

Breathe new life into your Motor or Sailing Yacht!

Simon Marine takes pleasure in elevating and rejuvenating yachts starting from 28 feet and beyond.  Whether it’s enhancements, updates, or complete overhauls, including portholes, hatches, headlinings, lights, carpets and flooring, upholstery, curtains, galley upgrades and heads replacements, mechanical engineering and equipment, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today to discuss your project, and we’ll be delighted to explore the optimal and cost effective solutions for you.

Transform your boat interiors into a space you love.

Protecting your investment.

There are several compelling reasons to consider getting your motor or sailing yacht refurbished or refitted.

Whether you are looking for a complete refurb or making improvements to an existing owned yacht, or purchasing a pre-owned yacht or looking to sell, ultimately it is a strategic investment that not only enhances the yacht’s overall appeal but also ensures it remains a safe, high-performance, and enjoyable vessel for you and your guests.

• Personalisation, Modernisation and style
• Increased Comfort
• Improved Safety Standards
• Protecting your investment
• Technology Upgrades
• Environmental Considerations
• Extended Lifespan

Some of our Latest Projects...

Inspired and want to find out more., our expertise.

We specialise in refitting yachts for our clients, blending precision craftsmanship with a passion for creating floating havens of comfort.  Discover a life afloat, redefined

Service & Support

Simon Marine has developed a strong reputation for its improvements and refits on motor and sailing yachts.  A real labour of love, each project is unique and bespoke.   

Correspondence

Little Orchard, Kellaton, Kingsbridge, Devon.  TQ7 2ES

DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT

01548 511047 / 07768154978 [email protected]

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The UK's Leading Yacht Refit & Repair Boatyard

Established in 1927, Fox’s Marina & Boatyard has some of the most extensive yacht refit and repair facilities , to be found anywhere in the UK.

Located on the East Coast of the UK, in Ipswich, Suffolk, our 15-acre site offers exceptional marina and boatyard services. Fox’s is unique amongst the majority of boatyards in that we provide a complete service in-house, with our own teams of highly skilled engineers and craftsmen, boat handlers, riggers, electricians and fabricators.

Established and respected yacht refit and repair yard

50+ Workforce

Our loyal and highly-skilled team is our greatest asset

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Extensive range of services all under one-roof

2000+ Repeat Customers

Customer satisfaction has led to customer loyalty

Discover more about Fox's and the huge range of services we offer

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The complete service for all sailing and motor yachts and commercial craft.

Fox’s Marina & Boatyard is an independently run marina and boatyard located on the River Orwell in Ipswich, Suffolk providing 100 pontoon berths with easy access at all states of the tide, ashore storage for over 200 vessels, extensive on-site yacht repair, refit and maintenance facilities a large chandlery. We offer a secure, friendly facility that’s perfectly equipped to provide all our customers with a first class service, from casual berthing to complete refits .

Skilled, experienced workforce

Our loyal workforce is our greatest asset, allowing us to deliver consistently high standards and the best level of customer care. All project management and communications is handled by hands-on managers with access to the resources offered by our range of on-site departments. This allows us to provide the best advice based on extensive knowledge, and bring innovative solutions with clear and transparent estimates.

Multiple departments under one roof

Complementing our marina , we have extensive boat handling and storage options, large heated workshops and the capability to carry out all work via multiple in house departments. Our skilled teams allow us to offer a wide range of services including workshops specialising in composite repairs and modification; gelcoat repairs and polishing; spray paint application and finishing; traditional timber repairs; joinery and teak deck work; electronic installation and fault finding; marine engineering; stainless fabrication; standing and running rigging; spar supply and maintenance; commercial and workboat services and race preparation and support .

Please get in touch

For further information about any of our marina or boatyard services, or to discuss your refit or repair project in more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact us – we’d love to hear from you!

Speak to one of the Fox's Team

Fox’s Marina portfolio

Take a look at some of the refit and repair projects we have recently undertaken at Fox's Marina & Boatyard. Visit our Portfolio page to view all.

These are just some of the recent projects we have undertaken at Fox’s Marina & Boatyard. This is only a small sample of what we do.

We offer an extensive range of facilities and in-house technical expertise for owners of vessels of more or less every size and type.

At Fox's Marina & Boatyard, customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal and we have built up a loyal and satisfied customer base. See what our customers have to say about the variety of services we have provided for them.

I have worked in the industry for 25 years and have spent time in shipyards all over the world and it’s rare to find such a friendly boatyard. I have been genuinely impressed with the professionalism and knowledge of all the staff at Fox’s

I want to say a big thank you to all the Fox's staff for the excellent service, advise and workmanship, your input has made what seemed to be a big job turn into an easily manageable job and I am forever grateful.

HAMPSHIRE MARINE - SUPERYACHT PROJECT MANAGEMENT

New construction refit technical management.

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Yacht Refit Guide: Making Your Pre-Owned Oyster Your Own

If you’ve just bought or are considering buying one of our pre-owned sailing yachts for sale, the first thing on your mind will likely be getting aboard and starting your adventure. However, just as each person has their unique preferences about home design, each yacht owner wants their yacht to suit their personal tastes. At Oyster, we have an extensive yacht refit department with capabilities to make your brokerage sailing yacht your own. Below, we run through the refit process, yard locations, what can be changed and the ‘Oyster difference’.

The oyster yacht refit process: step by step.

From the moment you get in touch to talk about yacht refurbishment we are by your side, and we will help you every step along the way. The yacht refit process generally goes as follows:

• You reach out to Oyster Yachts Palma, our primary European sailboat upgrade centre. Operations Manager of Oyster Yachts Palma, Mark Durham meets with you to discuss what you would like to have done.
• Based on this discussion, Mark assigns one of the three Project Managers (PMs) to oversee the refit, with each PM offering their own specialist skills:

Steve Colley

Joined Oyster Palma S.L. as Service Manager in 2017 having previously managed Oyster Service & Refit Southampton since 2011. Steve has managed numerous major refit and repair contracts as well as overseeing warranty works in the UK, Spain and the Caribbean.

Hamish Burgess-Simpson

A sailor come ashore who has lived, sailed and worked on both sides of the Atlantic, the Caribbean, Indian and Pacific Oceans, and the Mediterranean – focusing on a wide range of disciplines over the years. In the past 15 years, Hamish has primarily concentrated on yacht refit and new-build project management, and for the majority of his maritime career, he has sailed and worked on Oyster yachts.

Pierre Oberon

Recently joined Oyster having run his own yacht maintenance company in Palma for 15 years, Pierre has considerable experience of the entire yacht refurbishment process. He has worked in many areas of the marine industry; as a sailor, service manager, and workshop manager, project managing several refits of motor and sailing yachts, and as director of two service companies and a charter base over the last 34 years. Pierre is fluent in English, Spanish, French, with a comfortable understanding of German.

• The PM meets with you and talks through your ideas and requirements, bringing in the relevant members of the Oyster team to advise on pricing and timescales. They look at your budget and divide your wish-list as necessary paying careful attention to what is most important to you.
• The PM schedules in the necessary work, keeping the majority of this in-house with our expert professionals. If anything is subcontracted, such as upholstery or rigging, the PM will oversee the work to ensure it is completed to Oyster standards, providing you with warranty and peace of mind. We will provide a trustworthy and objective eye, sharing our years of knowledge while at the same time keeping you up-to-date. Oyster’s seal of approval on these works will help boost the resale value of your yacht. 
• You receive regular updates from the PM. If Oyster’s team finds anything that would benefit from being serviced while onboard, the PM will contact you to see whether you want to proceed.

WHERE CAN I BOOK AN OYSTER REFIT?

• Our yacht refit team in Palma are insured to work in any local yard, meaning we can be flexible to your needs and preferences.
• Our Oyster representative in Barcelona can support you there, offering advice on the best local yard for your projects and managing any refurbishment through.
• If you’re in the U.S., Oyster Yachts Newport offers everything from light maintenance to intensive sailboat upgrades.
• In the UK we have Oyster Service Centres in Southampton and Ipswich, which offer a broad range of services from yacht refurbishment through to annual maintenance.

WHAT CAN I CHANGE TO MAKE MY BROKERAGE YACHT FEEL LIKE HOME?

Yacht refurbishment can completely transform a vessel, making it almost unrecognisable. Other than impossible tasks such as moving structural bulkheads or changing the type/size of the yacht, the world is your Oyster. 

Below are some of the most common sailboat upgrades that will make a brokerage yacht feel like your own:

• Upholstery: This is the most popular way of personalising a yacht, allowing you to implement your taste in every little detail.
• Canvas work: Again, this adds a personal touch.
• AV system upgrade. This will depend on how high-tech you are, and what you will spend time doing on your yacht.
• Re-configuration of cabins: In some cases we have been able to change the cabin configuration to fit your family, perhaps adding bunk beds and games consoles for a kids cabin, or making one of the smaller cabins next to the owner’s suite into a cot room for very young children.

THE ‘OYSTER DIFFERENCE’

If you are planning on having your yacht refit, your first step should be to get in touch with our  Oyster sailing services  team. We know our boats inside out and are best equipped to refurbish your yacht, with countless hours of build experience under our belts. 

Not only does an Oyster refit guarantee you the best possible quality, but if you are planning to sell your luxury sailing yacht at some point in the future, her resale value will be boosted by the fact that your works have been managed by Oyster’s trusted team. Get in touch today to set your project in motion.

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Home / Berthon Boatyard / Yacht Refit and Refurbishment / SY Aglaia Yacht Refit Project (77′)

SY Aglaia Yacht Refit Project (77′)

The refit and restoration of a 77ft blue water cruiser.

Aglaia, a 77ft 15-year old yacht designed by Rob Humphreys, was sold by Berthon in the autumn of 2015. The new owner wanted her refitted and modernised; accordingly, a delivery crew brought her north to Berthon’s Lymington Shipyard in October 2015. This is the story of her comprehensive restoration, a project that spanned just 9 months and was completed entirely at Berthon.

Assessment & Preparatory Work

After stripping the interior for bulkhead and headlining refurbishment, it quickly became apparent that Aglaia, which has already done three circumnavigations, could benefit from input from Berthon’s Ross Monson – an experienced yacht captain and large yacht refit manager – who was assigned to the project from the outset. As with any substantial refit work at Berthon, Aglaia then underwent a comprehensive assessment prior to the project plan being consolidated and put in place. This included substantial deck, rig and rigging, electrical, electronics, engineering and hydraulics systems surveys and a full de-store process that lasted 3 weeks. Every item removed was put into an inventory database, logged, photographed and stored.

• Management & Skills Control

The main areas identified for work were: mast shot blast and painting; hull, coach roof and coamings paintwork; teak deck replacement; full interior refit; new rigging and sails; and marine engineering – motors and pumps, electrical, fridge/freezer and air conditioning systems and new electronics. Berthon employ over 150 full-time skilled staff (including over 20 project managers and 25 apprentices) and as such comprehensive labour allocation plans across all trades jobs are worked up from the outset (and constantly tweaked) to ensure a seamless refit, with maximum efficiencies. Lean management techniques applied by Berthon Project Managers allowed us to average just over 450 hours per week peaking at 900hrs per week to attain maximum productivity on and off the yacht.

The standing rigging was inspected on 28th October with the mast unstepped and all fittings removed for shot blasting and subsequent painting. Aglaia was then lifted to Berthon’s M-Shed where preparatory work began immediately, making the yacht safe for work ashore. Here, hatches, winches, tracks etc were lifted in preparation for the removal of the teak deck. A good deal of cabinetry and all headlinings, cabin sole boards and other interior fittings were removed or stripped back so that basic systems could be accessed and the necessary re-engineering work carried out. Fixed floorboards were removed in the galley and crew quarters to improve access to fridge motors, air conditioning systems and pumps. All the tanks were emptied at the outset, pressure tested and cleaned. The engineering systems were all surveyed and assessed and a detailed engineering report was given to the owner to make his future decisions on.

Custom Interior Refurbishment

Aglaia’s interior, finished in clear satin varnish over cherry wood, had become dull. All wood surfaces were either revarnished or repainted in-situ, or removed for refurbishment in the workshops; tasks that took in excess of 15-man weeks to complete. Where bulkheads in the cabins had a white vinyl finish with disintegrated backing foam, they were removed, remade and refaced with Elitis vinyl easy-to-clean material. On the technical front, direct conversations with 3M ensued, sourcing the right water-based glue for the backing fabric. The temperatures the glue had to withstand ranged from -10° to +50°C and humidity ranges between 1-98%. The glue had to be elastic enough to deal with the movement of the yacht, but firm enough not to allow creep in the fabric. For interior work small details, as ever, make all the difference and expert interior designer, Lola B Designs, ensured the owner’s vision for an updated modern décor was adhered to. All the cushions were replaced using easy-dry foam and double-stitched leather upholstery. Over 30 individual cushion covers were made to maintain the leather in pristine condition, increasing life of the fabric. Custom Elitis headboards with double stitched (Bentley motor style) material, and headlinings were finished in macro-suede. This had to be fitted so that the suede could be brushed fore and aft, with the fibres on the suede all brushed in the same direction. Bed linen, beach towels, cushions and aprons were all embroidered ‘Aglaia’ from Heirlooms and Naturalmat.

• Galley Modifications & Stowage .

In the galley and crew area, Corian work surfaces were fitted along with a Miele oven, hob, and washer-dryer, new sinks and macerators, custom storage units and lighting. All these units were carefully honed into position with service-friendly access. Custom fiddles and fittings were made in-house by Berthon joiners for glasses, cups and plates, which perfectly fit the John Lewis product range. There is room for 8 to eat comfortably at the dining room table with the cabinets above customised to fit the glasses snugly when in sailing mode. Even the bin-holders, under the sink were finished in cherry to match existing décor and varnished to a high standard.

We removed two of the old, inefficient fridge freezers replacing these with two new custom fridge freezers that were sourced and made in Italy, replacing all the plumbing, compressors and control system at the same time making Aglaia ‘greener’ and more energy-efficient.

• Bathrooms/Heads

Grohe showers and fittings were used, with Corian surfaces. Cabinets were either made at Berthon or ordered in, then painted, at Berthon’s paint facility for a high-gloss classic finish. The lighting systems were replaced throughout with fittings that are finished in a classic brushed metal style using a mixture of ordinary LED bulbs, with 26 anti-glare LED lights and 28m of LED strip lighting to provide just the correct ambience.

• Entertainment System & Connectivity

Berthon was able to completely modernise the interior, incorporating technologies that have become ubiquitous in modern life, rewiring of the yacht to accommodate a new Cisco wireless network systems for 4G connectivity throughout. This part of the refit involved partnering with some of the coolest brands in media entertainment systems such as Cornflake of London, who provided a bespoke sound system, mirroring the owner’s home set up. New hardware included Sonos speakers that were fitted seamlessly into the headlining and cabinets and Apple iPhone and iPad docking stations all making stowage of technology safe at sea, simple and stylish.

• Navigation and Eco-Control

A Crestron custom app enables control and system review remotely, via a smartphone if required.  This includes all the electrical and B&G chart navigation systems, new satellite technology (Sailor FleetBroadband) and communications equipment, as well as the ability to change how the yacht is using energy. Battery levels, generator output, power consumption and the electrical system temperatures and voltage levels can all be monitored remotely. The boat can be driven wirelessly using the autopilot, and the system can be controlled and monitored from anywhere in the world via the internet. This helps with performance diagnostics allowing third parties to support the crew from their offices, ensuring timely and well-informed assistance in case of a glitch on board during Aglaia’s world voyages.

Finally, as with all good refits, Berthon stripped out and re-upholstered the crew area, with further custom stowage options for watertight captain-specified boxes under the cabin soles, clear of the bilges.

Custom Exterior Refurbishment

• Remodelled Doghouse

On close inspection, the doghouse structure was showing signs of wear with cracks appearing at the base of the mullions which were repaired and reinforced in-situ. Whilst simultaneously strengthening the mullions so that they could better support the roof, the structure was given a modernising facelift altering the previously white mullions to match the black windows, which improved and modernised its visual profile. The windows were replaced using reinforced acrylic to help resist scratching and further reduce the overall weight.

The adjacent guest cockpit teak seating area had been sufficiently protected from the elements and as such had little need to be replaced, but splits were splined and a light sanding brought the wood back to life leaving a beautifully contoured seating area forward of the helm cockpit.

• New Hatches

Berthon replaced all 7 Lewmar deck hatches, hatch fittings and seals. Electrically activated security bars were repaired where required, and all hatch surrounds and window trims were repainted/varnished so they appear as good as new.

• Lifting Deck Blocks & Deck Gear

Deck blocks and deck gear were taken up to be serviced, cleaned and renovated in Berthon’s engineering workshop whilst the new teak deck was being laid. There were over 300 constituent parts to the deck. All the bolts were changed over to A4 high-grade marine stainless steel, to extend the life of the fixtures. New Lewmar 66 winch bases were installed and teak deck chocks were fitted amidships for a new windsurfer, as well as on a Berthon custom built stainless cradle for the new Williams 3.85 Jet tender on the foredeck.

• Lazarette & Transom Door

The lazarette storage area was stripped, providing Berthon’s in-house shipwrights and marine engineers with the challenge of maximising the space for efficient usage. We customised new racks for the refurbished compressor and dive bottles and storage areas for toys and accessories. The improvements make the area less cluttered and more accessible to the crew; retrieving dive equipment, in particular bottles, is now much more simple. An internally operated blind was fitted for the lazarette protecting its contents from prying eyes, especially useful when moored stern-to in harbours. The transom door was removed and resprayed to a high gloss by Berthon’s paint team whilst attending to the topsides.

Engineering

A new Kohler generator was installed and during the engine service and specialist exhaust advice was sought from internationally renowned Halyard Marine. The bilge pump systems were completely overhauled, as was the air conditioning, ventilation system, fuel system and filters, hydraulic system and grey/black and freshwater systems were serviced and upgraded where the owner felt it necessary. The work was all completed in-house by Berthon. Every through-hull fitting was serviced, along with a  large numbers of sensors and senders that had failed or were not working over time.

• Steering System Refurbishment

When the boat arrived there were reported auto pilot problems. On further inspection, we found these problems to be more extensive. The auto pilot motor, Lewmar reduction gearbox, electric auto pilot motor, auto pilot controller and the bevel boxes looked as if they hadn’t been serviced in 15 years. The articulating joints were worn and stiff and the wheel hubs had bearing issues. We repaired and refurbished, or replaced, all the components also installing new top and bottom rudder bearings and two new waterproof gaiters. In addition, the gears were found to have tooth-wear and damage. Berthon are well equipped to accomplish all this work on-site in their workshops where engineers are able to fabricate and customise parts.

Exterior Paintwork

The topsides were tired; Aglaia spent many weeks in the paint preparation shed undergoing multiple hand sandings with longboards between various coats of Awlgrip highbuild and primer to achieve a perfect preparation surface for the final gloss coatings. Aglaia was then moved to Berthon’s glossing booth which is kept void of dust, where topcoats were applied to hull and coachroof and coaming areas using Awlcraft 2000 in Majestic Blue Gloss and Snow White Gloss respectively.

Airflow in the glossing booth of 0.4m per second to remove overspray allows the applicators perfect visibility during the critical top coating process, and each sprayer has a separate 2m x 2m large hull shaped test panel set up in the booth for test spraying. Flow and film thickness is checked before moving to the hull or coach roof areas. Meticulous calculations beforehand use the surface area to ascertain the amount of paint to be mixed, including a known overspray loss factor, and the three wet-on-wet top coat spray process completes the job.

Berthon paint sheds are precisely temperature controlled with the spraying completed at a lower temperature to avoid surface cure prior to solvent evaporation (which causes an orange peel effect). Throughout the paint process, after a specified time each application session is then baked at product denominated temperatures, which also ensures the vital perfect chemical bond between coats.

These and other processes result with an ‘off-the-gun’ finish, providing an excellent quality of sheen which requires no polishing. Prior to removal from the glossing spray booth, a water-based temporary peelable coating (TPC) is applied to protect the still relatively delicate gloss finish. TPC allows the paint to continue to cure and improve during the remainder of the refit project up to launch achieving a textbook finish.

New Teak Deck

The deck was found to be only 7mm thick, on average, having suffered the wear and tear of 15 years at sea in largely tropical climes; the elements and years of cleaning had clearly taken their toll. The teak area was templated, the toe rail was lifted in one piece and the old deck carefully removed. Where the subdeck was found to be damaged in places, this was repaired in-situ. The new teak deck sections were laid on a fibreglass composite skin and, using an epoxy adhesive, it was glued to the subdeck with no through-deck fixings to prevent water leaks. Berthon custom-made a new teak toe-rail.

New Rigging

On visual inspection, using dye-testing as a diagnostic and bearing in mind the many miles she had completed along with the many more miles planned, Berthon recommended that the standing rod rigging be replaced. New foil sections were purchased and SSB isolators (which had been removed in the past) re installed. Every nut and bolt on the rig was replaced in A4 marine high-grade stainless steel. All the clutches were swapped with new high-tech, modern versions. All the sheaves were replaced. New wiring and lighting followed. The Navtec rams were all serviced. All the running rigging was supplied and spliced at Berthon with custom colours from DSM so that every line on board matched the owner’s specifications.

Sea Trials & Manuals

Berthon have a long pedigree building and refitting both commercial boats and leisure yachts, and the sea trial process is paramount at the end of such a comprehensive restoration. Set procedures have been honed through working with the RNLI, MOD, Pilot Authorities and professional Captains and owners of leisure yachts. With the help of Vectis Marine Design Ltd all modifications, including electrical and engineering systems, were committed to purpose-specific custom manuals for Captain, crew and owner reference. The success of the refit only becomes apparent with extensive use and we are delighted Aglaia has now resumed her normal cruising pattern in warmer climes. Buying a second hand yacht and then undertaking a substantial refit will deliver an owner a virtually new yacht for a fraction of the new yacht price, in substantially less time, and a sterling denominated refit benefits all parties.

To download the full Aglaia case study please click on the image below…

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Yacht Marala - Now & The Future

The new owners of Yacht Marala, only the fifth in 88 years, are currently conducting a total refit of the vessel. Stage one saw two years of work undertaken in Malta and included a newly appointed crew mess, crew cabins and an extensive rebuild of the classic motor yacht’s original 1930’s M.A.N. engines. 

Stage two is underway and involves a substantial period of renovation at UK superyacht specialist Pendennis Shipyard. The comprehensive restoration includes upgrades to the steelworks, domestic and electrical systems, a completely new guest area, and a number of superstructure modifications that aim to restore her original classic yacht profile. The Yacht Marala owners hope to see her cruising once again in 2021. 

Builder                  Camper & Nicholsons Ltd Built in                  Southampton, UK Launched in          1931 Beam                     8.08m Draft                      3.8m Material                 Steel hull Super structure      Aluminium Engine                   2 x 750 horsepower M.A.N Fuel capacity         89,000L Fresh water            32,000L Cruising speed       12 knots GT                         499 LOA                      58.5m

Photos – Muza Lab

Leading London based Interior Design company Muza Lab, were chosen by the Yacht Marala owners for the guest area refit design. Muza Lab work very closely with the owners and have created an exquisite design reminiscent of the Art Deco era when Marala was launched. Many classic wood work features typical of the Camper & Nicholson 1931 build have been sympathetically incorporated into the new design. Silk panel walls, straw parquetry, brass fittings, crystal chandeliers and a fire place are particular features that the owners specified as important to the new design.

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Italian special forces divers to comb sunken Bayesian superyacht for clues

12 September 2024, 09:13

By Asher McShane

Italian navy special forces divers are combing the sunken superyacht Bayesian for clues as to why it sunk, claiming seven lives during a storm off the coast of Sicily.

Listen to this article

The Italian Navy’s secretive Comsubin unit are coming the yacht for any electronic devices that might offer clues to why it sunk - as well as checking to see if any doors were left open on board.

A source close to the investigation told The Times: “The investigating magistrate has asked Comsubin to investigate so he can check statements made by the crew of the yacht.”

The yacht’s captain and two British crew members are under investigation after the boat sank on August 19.

The £30m vessel is now 50m down on the sea bed half a mile outside the fishing port of Porticello.

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The victims’ bodies were recovered by divers from Italy’s fire fighting service.

Post-mortem examinations of victims of the Bayesian superyacht sinking showed drowning as the cause of death.

Mike Lynch and his daughter Hannah were among those who died in the disaster

US lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife Neda were also among the dead.

The post-mortem examinations were carried out by coroners designated by Palermo prosecutors, who confirmed the results.

Prosecutors are investigating the captain and two crew members for possible responsibility in connection with the sinking.

The 56-metre (184ft) British-flagged luxury yacht sank during what appears to have been a sudden downburst, or localised powerful wind from a thunderstorm that spreads rapidly after hitting the surface.

Fifteen people, including Mr Lynch's wife, were rescued.

Prosecutors said raising the Bayesian and examining the yacht for evidence would provide key elements to the investigation.

No timeline has been determined.

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Specialist naval divers called in to search for clues to why Mike Lynch superyacht sank

Investigating magistrate calls in italian navy equivalent of british special boat service to trawl sunken bayesian, article bookmarked.

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Italian navy specialist divers are combing the superyacht on which tycoon Mike Lynch and six others died to try to find out why it sank last month off Sicily.

An investigating magistrate has reportedly asked the Italian navy’s secretive Comsubin unit to search for clues as to what happened , so he can check them against statements given by the crew.

Sicilian magistrates are investigating the yacht’s captain, a British yacht engineer and another British crew member over their role in the sinking of the Bayesian in a storm off Sicily last month.

Fifteen people, including Mr Lynch’s wife, survived the sinking, and other vessels nearby stayed afloat.

Mr Lynch died alongside  his 18-year-old daughter, Hannah, the boat’s chef and four others who were on board the British-flagged yacht, celebrating his acquittal after a decade-long legal battle.

About six divers from the Comsubin unit are combing the 180ft superyacht for electronic equipment, including data storage and CCTV footage, according to The Times .

They are also checking whether doors or hatches were left open, a source close to the investigation told the paper.

Sources close to New Zealander James Cutfield, 51, the captain, told the Italian newspaper  Corriere Della Sera  that is living through the darkest days of his life.

A large-scale search operation by Italy’s fire service was carried out over for five days as they retrieved the seven bodies.

Divers faced debris and furniture that blocked the narrow passageways of the sunken yacht.

But the sinking has puzzled maritime experts , who said a vessel such as the Bayesian, built by high-end yacht manufacturer Perini, should have withstood the storm.

The naval diving specialists from Comsubin, which is the Italian navy equivalent of the British Special Boat Service, have now begun work, supported by a navy minesweeper with a decompression chamber to help in deep-dive operations.

The authorities say the vessel’s owner, Revton, which is controlled by Lynch’s widow Angela Bacares, will fund the operation to raise the yacht.

Revton has employed a Genoa-based diving company, Drafinsub, to use sonar and a submersible robot to study the state of the Bayesian to plan how to raise it.

“With the robot we will video the hull to see how the yacht and its mast are positioned on the sea floor, while the sonar we have on a vessel can map the sea floor and check the position of the anchor and chain,” a Drafinsub official told The Times .

Around 18,000 litres of fuel must be syphoned out of the yacht’s tanks to avoid any spillage and make the vessel lighter to lift.

Then buoyancy balloons may be used or ties could be attached to the yacht to hoist it to the surface.

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Below Deck: What Captian Lee and the original gang of characters are doing now

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From Captain Lee to Chief Stew Kate, the characters of the Below Deck franchise have caught viewers hook, line and sinker over the past few years.

We’ve had Chef Leon’s endless seasons of beef cheeks, yacht crashes, staff falling overboard, firings, hirings and some very impressive cash tips.

While most real-life “yachties” maintain that the dramas shown on Below Deck does not happen on their yachts, it sure does make for good TV.

Below Deck series finished its 11th season this year, but fans can now tune in to the chaos of Below Deck Mediterranean, which is currently being streamed on Bravo.

So where are all our favourite characters these days?

Here’s what the chefs, stewardesses and deckhands did after their stint at sea.

Captain Lee

While the rest of his crew were often embroiled in bitter spats and romantic feuds, Captain Lee served as the wise voice of reason.

Known for his no-nonsense approach, he was a staple of the Below Deck family across 10 seasons before his departure due to mobility issues following surgery.

Speaking to the Standard , Captain Lee said: “I miss the traveling. I miss the challenges. And there’s certainly no lack of challenges on board, each one unique and different. So, yeah, I do miss it.”

Since leaving Below Deck, the veteran captain has remained in the entertainment world. He’s gone on to front a true crime series, Deadly Waters With Captain Lee, and a pop culture podcast called Salty with Captain Lee.

However, he may still be open to returning to the show should the producers approach him about it.

Boasting a cheeky sense of humor and a distinct British accent, Chef Ben Robinson knew how to cook up a storm during his seasons of Below Deck. He left the show in 2016 but continued to appear on Below Deck Med in a handful of episodes.

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Alongside his television stints, Robinson has stuck to what he knows best: cooking. With almost 1 million Instagram followers, he shares cooking videos on social media as he plates up delicious recipes for diners around the world.

According to Us Weekly, he also specialises in weight loss, addiction support and cancer care. Last year he confirmed that he had proposed to his girlfriend of three years, Kiara Cabral.

Kate Chastain

Fiery chief stewardess Kate Chastain spent six seasons on the show before confirming her departure to pursue new projects. She also remained in the entertainment world, initially going on to host a Bravo show called Chat Room and appearing on other talk shows. More recently, she has appeared on The Traitors US season one and two.

But her days of working on a yacht may be over. “These days I prefer being a guest on a yacht,” she wrote on social media this summer.

In 2023, Chastain’s son Sullivan was born and she has shared lots of doting pictures of her family life on social media.

Eddie Lucas

Deckhand-turned-bosun Eddie Lucas initially graced our screens for three eventful seasons before returning for another stint in seasons eight and nine. After the show, he remained at sea and finally gained his captain’s licence as he’d always dreamed he would. These days he operates a tug boat in the US.

“I’m the captain now,” he wrote in 2022.

“After 10 years of hard work, I’m proud to announce I am now captain of a harbor tug in Baltimore Harbor. I am working with a great crew, on a great tug, and I’m excited for 30 more years of harder work. Big thank you to my family, both on and off the water, I wouldn’t be here today without you.”

Ashton Pienaar

Ashton Pienaar was working as a deckhand on Below Deck when he almost died in season six after his foot got caught in a tow line, sending him overboard. He was dragged into the water and saved by the cameraman during the hairy moment, which left the entire crew shaken.

Pienaar now works as a health and fitness coach and has published a memoir called Knots, Lines, and Life, which is about his life at sea.

Hannah Ferrier

Australian chief stewardess Hannah Ferrier is one of the most memorable characters from Below Deck Mediterrenean.

She was forced to leave the show after violating maritime law for holding valium without a prescription, as well as a weed pen.

According to her social media, she is “now helping people realise their dreams of working on yachts” and hosts a podcast called Dear Reality You’re Effed.

In 2020, she gave birth to a daughter, Ava Grace Roberts.

Raquel 'Rocky' Dakota

Rocky was one of the wilder crew members to grace our screens, known for her impressive diving skills, mermaid tail and on-screen romance with Eddie.

“After the show, I went on a big blow-out vacation trip, with no rules and no regulations! I linked up with my hot model girlfriends in Paris and just crushed Europe,” she said after leaving the show.

According to Screen Rant, Rocky stepped back from yachting and television and went on to share many social media posts about her dreamy surfer lifestyle.

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Refit guide: Top tips for a quick superyacht refit

Whether buying a second-hand yacht or looking to refresh the interior of an existing one, few owners want to undergo a lengthy refit process. “Usually we’ll get an order in January, and the owners want to be back on the water by June, if not Easter,” says Francesca Muzio, of Italian design studio FM Architettura d’Interni . When speed is a priority, it’s always a challenge for designers and shipyards. “A refit is no less involved than a new-build project,” says yacht designer Sam Sorgiovanni . “You have to understand what’s there and how to work with it before you start on design solutions.” You also have to retain “the soul of the boat”, says Laura Pomponi, of Luxury Projects . You don’t want to strip everything out and be left with something unrecognisable. So how does one overhaul a yacht interior , within a limited timescale, without affecting the boat’s overall character? Read these seven rules to find out...

Look at the basics

“Never underestimate how much of an impact adding in new fabrics and loose furniture has on the feel of a boat,” says Charlie Baker of RWD . “When you board a yacht after a refresh, you realise how tough the impact of salt and sunlight really are.” When time is short, you’ll need soft furnishings and fabric options available at short notice, but, says Pomponi, “designers are often strategic in only showing these options to clients”. New artworks and decorative accessories are an easy addition too. “They’re an instantly impactful way to add a personal touch.”

Image courtesy of Billy Black.

Avoid major structural changes

If speed is your priority in a refit, avoid altering major structures such as steel bulkheads, which lead to engineers and possibly classification organisations and a lengthier process. If structural changes are compulsory, “planning is paramount”, says Baker. “On Ilona [pictured], which went through fairly major changes last year, the work in the yard was done quickly but the planning and preparation was done well in advance to minimise the time the boat was out of action.”

Play with light

Lighting tech has come a long way, and modernising systems can enhance the feel of a yacht. “If there are halogen spots, introducing LED technology, string lights and multiple dimmable circuits can create a totally different ambience,” says Pomponi. Baker adds that one should also consider updating the flow of natural light. “Window treatments can make a room feel completely different. How a sheer curtain or blind reacts with light through a porthole or window can soften a formerly stark room,” he says.

Work with what you have

“Furniture and joinery can be retained but modernised,” says Pomponi. “A high-gloss dark panel could be treated with a multi-step varnish removal and lime-washing process, for instance, and brass fittings or hardware can be turned into silver or chrome. On the refit of Nero [pictured], we used a product that gave an aged patina look to the portholes for a new look.”

Image courtesy of Stuart Pearce.

Adapt, don’t alter

A smart designer will look at adapting existing elements rather than stripping them out. Muzio references a past project, where mother-of-pearl veneers were used throughout, to the dismay of the owner. “Re-veneering is a big job, but we found a way to cover the panels with leather instead.” One can also look at adapting how spaces are used. “Refits often involved modernising a boat to focus more on a more relevant lifestyle. In the past we have turned a library into a corner for amenities for the spa .”

Work with the right team

According to Baker, a dedicated owner’s rep is essential on any project. “They can make all the difference to a project running smoothly and efficiently.” And Sorgiovanni says choosing a yard with experience in refits is also vital. “Things can go wrong if you work with a second-tier yard. I would always recommend using some of the traders that built the vessel in the first place.”

Look at the technology

Nothing moves faster than tech , and it’s not unusual to find systems significantly out of date. Replacing televisions or speakers is easy, but if you’re looking to update the systems entirely, Baker recommends using a specialist audiovisual and tech consultant. “As well as ensuring you have something that meets your requirements now, they’ll ensure a system can be put in place with added flexibility, so your yacht can also be ready for the next gen of tech when the time comes.”

Image courtesy of Mike Jones / WATERLINE MEDIA.

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